“Early Signs of Cancer: Why Fatigue Could be a Red Flag Symptom”

A recent survey by Cancer Research showed that only 48% of adults admitted that they would see a doctor within a few weeks of the first signs of the disease, even in the case of coughing up blood or an unexplained lump.

Doctors have revealed a list of some of the early signs often seen in patients before they are diagnosed with cancer. Among them is the feeling of fatigue

“You might think that coughing up blood or unexplained bleeding are hard symptoms to ignore, but this research shows that many do.” says Dr Julie Sharp, Head of Health and Patient Engagement at CRUK, according to Mirror.

“Whether or not it’s a red flag symptom, if you notice a change in your health that’s unusual for you or doesn’t go away, contact your GP as soon as possible.” she said.

When diagnosed in the first stage – the earliest – more than 9 out of 10 (92%) people will survive bowel cancer for five years or even longer.

In contrast, when diagnosed at stage four, the percentage of those who survive drops to 10%.

Dr Sharp said anyone with any of the following symptoms should see a doctor straight away – although in most cases it won’t be cancer, early detection can make a real difference and save a life, she warned.

Early signs observed in patients diagnosed with cancer

Fatigue. It comes from many causes, such as stress, autoimmune problems or even sleep problems.

“If you feel tired for no apparent reason, it could be a sign that something is wrong.” says Dr. Sharp.

Inexplicable pain. It is a sign that something is wrong. If it persists it is important to consult a doctor.

“As we get older, pain is more common. But unexplained pain could be a sign of something more serious.” says Dr. Sharp.

Profuse night sweats. Dr. Sharp says there are many reasons why a person experiences heavy night sweats — infections, medications or going through menopause.

However, very heavy night sweats can also be a symptom of several types of cancer, including leukemia.

Unexplained weight loss. There are many reasons why we lose weight effortlessly, such as intestinal or thyroid problems. Dr. Sharp says that a person who loses a lot of weight without making any effort should see a doctor.

Unusual swelling. Lumps are one of the most common symptoms of cancer. Although they can be caused by many less serious problems, such as a wound, Dr. Sharp emphasizes that persistent swelling anywhere on the body should be taken seriously.

Unexplained bleeding. Unexplained bleeding — in feces, urine, vomit, coughing, or any unexplained vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause — should be checked out by a doctor, says Dr. Sharp, who explains that the blood could change color. in red, brown or black.

Skin changes. These may include a wound that does not heal, a new mole or changes in the size, shape or color of a mole, crusting, itching or bleeding. Any unusual change in a patch of skin or a nail should be checked by a doctor.

Digestive and food problems. Difficulty swallowing, heartburn, indigestion, loss of appetite can all be symptoms of cancer.

Swallowing problems can be a symptom of head and neck cancer, while persistent indigestion could be a sign of several types of cancer, including pancreatic, stomach and esophageal. Loss of appetite is also a sign of many types of cancer.

Hoarse voice, cough or difficulty breathing. According to the NHS, hoarseness that persists for more than three weeks should be checked as it may be a symptom of throat cancer.

Similarly, if you have an unexplained cough that doesn’t go away in a few weeks or gets worse, it could be a sign of lung cancer. If you have difficulty breathing, also consult a doctor. Even though it could just be related to an infection or other heart or lung problems, a cough could be a symptom of cancer.

Intestinal problems. Any bowel changes, such as constipation, diarrhea, or trouble urinating, are signs that you should see a doctor. These symptoms could indicate bowel or bladder cancer.

“All of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, but it’s best to get them checked out.” says Dr. Sharp.

Mouth ulcer. Although canker sores are common, if they persist for more than two weeks they should be checked.

Dr. Sharp says that a canker sore or a red or white spot in the mouth that doesn’t heal after three weeks should be reported to the doctor.

Unusual changes in the breasts. Not only a lump can be a symptom of breast cancer. Women should be aware of any changes that occur in the breast – change in size, shape, redness or pain.